Hunza admin lifts controversial hotel restrictions after backlash

GILGIT: The district administration on Thursday withdrew its earlier notification that declared 342 out of 387 hotels and guest houses in Hunza unsafe for accommodating foreign tourists.

According to the initial notification, 138 hotels and guest houses were categorized as medium-risk and 204 establishments as high-risk for hosting foreign tourists, while only 45 were deemed low-risk and safe for foreign visitors.

The decision sparked backlash from stakeholders, including the Pakistan Association of Tour Operators (PATO), the Hunza Hotel Association, and the Hunza Chamber of Commerce and Industry. They argued that the move not only damaged Hunza’s reputation as a peaceful destination but also threatened the hotel industry, local economy, and livelihoods of thousands of families. Following the uproar, the district administration reversed its decision.

“The notification issued vide No. Misc-151/1986-1996/2023 dated 25th April, 2025. regarding the implementation of security categorization of hotels in Hunza, is hereby withdrawn with immediate effect,” reads a notification issued by the deputy commissioner.

The administration clarified that the previous order was issued due to heightened regional tensions and directives received to enhance security measures at all facilities accommodating foreign tourists.

“In this context, the Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) issued by the National Counter Terrorism Authority (NACTA), revised on 1st September 2024, were followed, mandating minimum security enablers at such locations to ensure the safety of visiting foreigners,” it added.

The notification emphasised that the district administration, alongside law enforcement and stakeholders, remains committed to ensuring a secure environment for tourists, particularly foreigners, “given that Hunza is a prime tourist destination and vulnerable to potential exploitation by hostile elements”

However, the district administration said it acknowledges the concerns raised by the hospitality sector regarding the potential impact of the notification on tourism and business. “In the spirit of promoting a balanced approach between security and economic activity, the previous notification stands withdrawn,” the deputy commissioner said.

Moving forward, the district administration and law enforcement agencies will hold consultations with stakeholders to revise SOPs, allowing more hotels, guest houses, and homestays to host foreign tourists under reasonable and practical security measures.

The Hunza administration reiterated that ensuring visitor safety while supporting local businesses remains a shared priority, and all necessary measures will continue to be taken in this regard.